Chapter 17: Reflections in Xizhou

(1)
Qin Ke began to enjoy the special three-day leave that Zhou Pin had specially granted him.
He told Cheng Ang that, being unfamiliar with life in Xizhou, he needed Bian Xiaoqi to act as his guide and show him around the entire city.
Qin Ke had successfully resolved the equipment issues troubling Tongyuan Telecom and assisted Bian Xiaoqi in smoothly signing a contract worth over ten million yuan for equipment expansion. Cheng Ang was in great spirits and readily agreed to Qin Ke’s request, giving Bian Xiaoqi some funds for tickets and meals during their outings.
Qin Ke was pleased with Cheng Ang’s response and smiled, saying, “President Cheng, next time there’s a problem with the equipment, just come to me—I won’t refuse.”
Cheng Ang chuckled, “We’ll definitely be relying on your expertise from now on. You’re a tech whiz; I wouldn’t dare offend you!”
Bian Xiaoqi joined in the fun, joking, “If Qin can’t eat or enjoy himself properly, I’ll cover the expenses out of my own pocket.”
Bian Xiaoqi first took Qin Ke to the Du Fu Thatched Cottage, perfectly suited to their shared poetic temperament. The two both admired the “Poet Sage” Du Fu, who had lived here for nearly four years and composed many celebrated poems.
The Du Fu Thatched Cottage covers nearly 300 acres and retains the architectural layout from renovations during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Along the central axis lie the screen wall, main gate, main hall, poetry and history hall, firewood gate, and Ministry of Works shrine, flanked symmetrically by corridors and other auxiliary buildings.
They admired the flowing water, winding bridges, and the bamboo and trees that created a serene, solemn, and elegant atmosphere. Bian Xiaoqi asked, “Qin, shall you compose a poem before the Poet Sage?”
Qin Ke replied, “Before the Poet Sage, I dare not show off my skills. I can only maintain my respect.”
Next, they visited the Wuhou Shrine. They barely glanced at the statues of the three brothers Liu, Guan, and Zhang but studied carefully the 28 statues of Shu Han’s civil and military officials. The civil officials’ corridor, led by the “Fledgling Phoenix” Pang Tong, featured fourteen figures including Pang Tong, Jian Yong, Lü Kai, Fu Rong, Fei Yi, Dong He, Deng Zhi, Chen Zhen, Jiang Wan, Dong Yun, Qin Mi, Yang Hong, Ma Liang, and Cheng Ji. The military corridor, led by the wise and brave Zhao Yun, also had fourteen figures including Zhao Yun, Sun Qian, Zhang Yi, Ma Chao, Wang Ping, Jiang Wei, Huang Zhong, Liao Hua, Xiang Chong, Fu Qian, Ma Zhong, Zhang Yi, Zhang Nan, and Feng Xi. Both were well-versed in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms and recognized these names. Bian Xiaoqi said she favored Jiang Wan and Zhao Yun, while Qin Ke preferred Fei Yi and Ma Chao.
Finally, they lingered before the statue of Zhuge Liang, holding his feather fan, wearing a silk headscarf and a crane-patterned cloak, exuding scholarly elegance.
Having just visited the Du Fu Thatched Cottage, Bian Xiaoqi couldn’t help but recite Du Fu’s unparalleled seven-character regulated verse “The Prime Minister of Shu”:
“Where to seek the Prime Minister’s shrine? Outside Brocade Official City, cypresses stand dense.
Green grass reflects spring by the steps, yellow orioles sing sweet songs among the leaves.
Three visits sought frequent counsel on the world’s affairs, the old minister’s heart served two dynasties’ aid.
He died before the campaign’s success, forever making heroes weep with full sleeves.”
Qin Ke sighed, “This poem is majestic and tragic, with solemn cadences that move the soul. It truly deserves to be called the greatest historical seven-character regulated verse of all time.” Following Bian Xiaoqi’s lead, he recited Lu You’s seven-character regulated verse “Written in Resentment”:
“In youth, who knew how hard the world was? Gazing north to the Central Plains, my spirit like a mountain.
Towering ships in snow at Gua Zhou ferry, iron horses in autumn winds at Dasan Pass.
The Great Wall in the frontier is but empty boast, in the mirror, my graying temples have already appeared.
To set out on a campaign was a true mark of fame; who now can compare in a thousand years?”
Bian Xiaoqi admired it, “This poem’s vast imagery and profound emotion rival ‘The Prime Minister of Shu.’”
She asked Qin Ke, “Liu Bei’s three visits to the humble cottage gained him a powerful ally. Zhuge Liang first devised the Longzhong Plan, then established control over the southwest, subsequently launched five campaigns against Cao Wei to reclaim the Central Plains, but finally failed at the brink of success. What’s your view of Zhuge Liang’s deeds?”
Qin Ke answered, “Throughout history, everyone seeks to achieve greatness; Zhuge Kongming was no different. Liu Bei’s emergence gave him opportunity; relying on this platform, he could realize his ambitions. The Longzhong Plan displayed his unparalleled wisdom, wisely dividing the realm into three parts and achieving his strategic goals. Once his achievements were secured, he should have focused on rest and development. But Liu Bei’s deathbed trust burdened him, binding him to a pedestal he couldn’t leave. Later, the repeated wars in the Central Plains were reckless overreach, and the fall of Shu was inevitable.”
Bian Xiaoqi said, “Your thoughts align closely with my father’s.”
Qin Ke looked at her and said, “Xiaoqi, drawing lessons from history to the present, though we lack Zhuge Liang’s genius, we should still plan for our future. Visiting the Wuhou Shrine today deeply moved me.”
Bian Xiaoqi encouraged, “Tell me what you’re thinking.”
“This place, far on the western frontier, feels relatively isolated compared to coastal cities. Look at how leisurely the people are here—drinking tea, playing cards, chatting all day—much slower than the pace in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. I believe its development lags behind those cities by at least ten years.”
“China has changed dramatically in the past twenty years of reform and opening up. The future of China will surely be the world’s market, factory, business, and financial center. That means more and better opportunities in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. We are young and must not be indifferent or complacent before such opportunities; we must not miss our chance. As Hu Shi said, fighting for personal freedom is fighting for national freedom. I say fighting for personal happiness is fighting for national happiness. We must change—in thought and action.”
“If we miss the next twenty years, we miss a lifetime. For our good days and for the next generation, we must bravely take a step forward. With our abilities, we can surely establish ourselves in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.”
“I believe you don’t want to continue living such an overly leisurely and comfortable life in Xizhou. We may not change the world, but at least we can change ourselves. Together, one plus one will be greater than two.”
Bian Xiaoqi was moved by Qin Ke’s passion and said, “If I stay in Xizhou, I’ll have no worries about food or clothing and life will be easy, but that’s not the life I want—I want to go out and see the world.”
“Xiaoqi, that’s wonderful. Within two months, I’ll go first.” Qin Ke was delighted to find their thoughts aligned.
“Let’s go together—I don’t want to be away from you too long.” Bian Xiaoqi nestled close to him.
“Alright, together.” Qin Ke hugged her tightly.
“Xiaoqi, after touring the Wuhou Shrine today, I feel my pace quicken toward leaving. Should I thank Zhuge Liang or you?” Qin Ke smiled, holding her.
“You should thank me,” Bian Xiaoqi teased.
“Yes, I must thank you first. With you, I’m more determined and motivated than ever before.” Qin Ke said.

(2)
At lunchtime, Bian Xiaoqi said, “Let’s have hotpot. Once we leave Xizhou, it’ll be hard to find such authentic hotpot.”
Qin Ke smiled, “You name it, we’ll eat it.”
They entered a hotpot restaurant. Surrounded by bubbling red broth, fresh lamb, tripe, and vibrant vegetables, savoring the numbing, spicy, fresh, and fragrant flavors, they ate until sweating and shouting with delight. She dipped lamb for him; he dipped tripe for her. She fed him a bite; he fed her one. Their loving closeness even drew envy from nearby diners. They had never enjoyed a meal so much.
After the hotpot, they visited Wangjiang Tower, standing beside the Jin River and built to honor Tang dynasty poetess Xue Tao. The tower was elegant and refined, blending the solidity of northern architecture with the charm of southern pavilions.
On the poetry balcony of Wangjiang Tower, Bian Xiaoqi proposed, “Let’s each write a poem to honor these beautiful river and sky views.”
This time Qin Ke didn’t hesitate: “Reluctantly parting, savoring tenderness, using Xizhou as an excuse to stay a few days. If asked about my mood now, on Wangjiang Tower I forget my sorrow of parting.”
Bian Xiaoqi gazed at him affectionately and recited: “Tomorrow only a shadow remains; from now on, bound to the east of the river. The deepest sorrow is silence; alone on the river tower, I wait for the wild geese.”
Qin Ke embraced her gently, saying softly, “Xiaoqi, when I return to Hedong, I’ll call you every night at ten.”
Next, Bian Xiaoqi led Qin Ke to explore Kuan Zhai Alley.
She explained that if the Du Fu Thatched Cottage and Wuhou Shrine embody over two thousand years of Xizhou’s cultural heritage, Kuan Zhai Alley condenses Shaocheng’s history, showcases architectural craftsmanship, and gathers Xizhou’s culinary delights. It reflects the city’s evolution over the past three centuries. For visitors to Xizhou, Kuan Zhai Alley is a must-see.
As time marches on and urban renewal continues, former military camps have vanished. Only a few streets like Kuan Zhai Alley remain as Shaocheng’s historical relics from the Qing dynasty. The government has preserved their antique charm to continue showcasing their former glory, while other streets have become ordinary urban districts, swallowed by the flow of history.
In her youth, these were not called Kuan Zhai Alley but known as several Shaocheng alleys—Kuan Alley was Xingren Alley, Zhai Alley was Taiping Alley, and Jing Alley was Ruyi Alley.
The founder of Shaocheng was the famous Sichuan governor Nian Gengyao. To keep the Eight Banners army, returning from quelling the Zunghar rebellion, stationed in Xizhou and guarding the southwest, Nian petitioned the court to build a closed military camp named Shaocheng, similar to a modern barracks.
People often think Kuan Zhai Alley’s architecture belongs to the Ming and Qing period’s western Sichuan residential style, but much of it actually replicates early Republic of China-era buildings. When discussing ancient architecture, we often overlook the Republican era after the Qing dynasty. The infusion of new culture refined aesthetics; formerly rough old tile houses gained a distinctive Republican charm.
Though most buildings were reconstructed with modern techniques, the strong Republican style remains, blending the delicate finesse of southern Chinese architecture with the grandeur of Western classicism in harmonious coexistence. A careful observer will notice faint bas-relief sculptures on the tall gable walls of Kuan Alley’s old courtyards, stubbornly standing as witnesses to a century of Chinese modern history.
Kuan Zhai Alley is one of the few southern neighborhoods preserving hutong culture. Its orderly arrangement of quadrangle courtyards recreates the hutongs of imperial Beijing in the southwestern enclave of Xizhou. Numerous quadrangles are arranged in enclosed layouts with front and back yards connected by courtyards and corridors, exquisitely carved. Only by stepping inside can one appreciate the craftsmanship’s charm.
The unique historical and cultural background of Kuan Zhai Alley shaped its planning and architecture: a complete city layout integrated with barracks; northern hutong style combined with Sichuan courtyards; Western-style Republican buildings merged with western Sichuan residences. These features create its distinctive architectural artistry, making it a rare urban cultural treasure amid today’s homogenized cityscapes.
Qin Ke knew little about Kuan Zhai Alley, but Bian Xiaoqi, having grown up in Xizhou, personally witnessed its changes over decades. She recounted its past and present in detail, satisfying Qin Ke’s curiosity and broadening his knowledge.
As a hub of Xizhou’s culinary delights, Kuan Zhai Alley offers a dazzling array of snacks and dishes. Alongside traditional favorites like San Da Pao, Heartbreaking Cold Jelly, Fat Intestine Noodles, grilled skewers, and Dan Dan noodles, savvy vendors regularly introduce new items to tempt tourists’ taste buds.
Bian Xiaoqi bought some favorite snacks, and they ate while strolling, making the tour even more enjoyable. They visited notable spots such as Kailu, Demen Renli, the Tethering Stone, and the Little Western-style Mansion.
Leaving Kuan Zhai Alley, Qin Ke said, “Xiaoqi, only now do I truly sense Xizhou’s charm.”
Bian Xiaoqi replied, “You’re right. I want to write a five-character regulated verse; I’ll compose the first four lines, and you finish the last four. How about that?”
Qin Ke readily agreed, “Great talent, please start.”
She recited:
“Sichuan and Shu famed as the Land of Abundance, Xizhou’s heritage known throughout the world.
Ming and Qing’s Kuan Zhai Alley stands, the Wuhou Shrine of the Three Kingdoms.”
After a moment’s thought, Qin Ke continued:
“Graceful Xue Tao’s name shines bright, Du Fu’s sorrowful verses resound.
Hotpot beckons all food lovers, numbing spice intoxicates wandering souls.”
They glanced at each other and burst into hearty laughter.

(3)
As the sun slanted westward, Bian Xiaoqi led Qin Ke to the bar run by Shen Jing.
Shen Jing’s “Blue Bridge” Bar sat beside a city canal, with windows overlooking a small bridge over the river. Under the slanting sun, the water shimmered; leisurely boaters drifted by, and a wandering singer softly strummed and crooned on the bridge.
Dusk had not yet fallen, and the bar had no customers. Entering, they saw Shen Jing sitting in a grand armchair, deeply engrossed in a book.
At Bian Xiaoqi’s greeting, Shen Jing looked up to see her and Qin Ke hand in hand, smiling brightly before her.
Shen Jing immediately rose, teasing, “Oh, Xiaoqi, no need to be so shameless—already flaunting your love? I thought you’d forgotten me long ago. What wind blew you here?”
Bian Xiaoqi quickly withdrew her hand from Qin Ke’s and blushed, smiling, “Jing, how could I forget you? I’m thirsty, so I came to you for a drink.”
Shen Jing said, “Here? No drinking water allowed—only alcohol. Otherwise, people will say I’m stingy.”
Bian Xiaoqi laughed, “Fine. Just make a couple of drinks. Qin Ke should try your bartending skills. By the way, I’m treating; Qin Ke will pay.”
“No, I’m treating. When you come here, I call the shots,” Shen Jing declared.
She went behind the bar, donned her bartender’s outfit, and expertly handled bottles, shakers, and spoons. Bian Xiaoqi saw a side of Shen Jing completely different from her usual joking demeanor—professional and focused.
Soon, Shen Jing presented two cocktails, along with a fruit platter and desserts.
Pointing to the cocktail before Bian Xiaoqi, Shen Jing asked, “Xiaoqi, do you know what this drink is?”
Bian Xiaoqi rarely drank and had at most tried beer or soft drinks at “Blue Bridge,” so she was unfamiliar with cocktail varieties. She smiled, “Jing, you’ve stumped me. Please enlighten me.”
Shen Jing explained, “See the bright red cherry perched on the glass rim against the creamy white whipped cream? It looks like an angel’s red lips, so this cocktail is called ‘Angel’s Kiss.’ It tastes sweet and smooth, like Cupid’s arrow striking a lover’s heart. Drinking it feels like kissing an angel.”
Bian Xiaoqi gazed at the striking black-and-white cocktail and smiled knowingly, “Jing, you really understand me—you’ve touched my heart.”
Then Shen Jing looked at Qin Ke, who had never tried a cocktail before. He shook his head at the vivid red drink before him.
Shen Jing laughed, “Qin Ke, this cocktail’s name has a story. In 1912, the stage play ‘The Pink Lady’ premiered in London. The heroine, Miss Hetherldon, held this very cocktail. The play was popular, so the cocktail took the name ‘Pink Lady.’ The drink is just like a charming pink lady standing before you.”
Qin Ke understood the implication and asked with a smile, “Shen Jing, with such a romantic name, it suits today perfectly. How is it made?”
“‘Pink Lady’ uses 30 ml gin, 15 ml egg white, 15 ml lemon juice, and 8 ml grenadine syrup. Pour all ingredients into a shaker filled three-quarters with ice, shake until the outside frosts, then strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a red cherry on the rim.”
“‘Angel’s Kiss’ uses coffee liqueur and condensed milk. Measure coffee liqueur into a bullet glass, then slowly pour condensed milk down the side with the back of a bar spoon. The coffee liqueur fills three-quarters of the glass; condensed milk fills the remaining quarter. Finally, place a cherry horizontally on the rim.”
Speaking about cocktail making, Shen Jing was eloquent and passionate, revealing a confident and beautiful side unseen before by Bian Xiaoqi and Qin Ke.
“‘Pink Lady’ is bright red, aromatic, smooth, suitable for all seasons. Its pink color symbolizes romantic love,” Shen Jing glanced at Bian Xiaoqi and smiled at Qin Ke.
“I’m no expert in cocktails. I never realized Westerners imbue such beautiful cultural meaning into their drinks. Hearing your explanation, I’ve learned something new today,” Qin Ke chuckled.
“As a bartender, I must know the origins, physical properties, taste, preparation, names, and serving methods of various liquors. I also need to assess their quality and age. Moreover, I recommend appropriate drinks to match different desserts. Since entering this profession, I’ve realized there’s so much to learn, but I really love it,” Shen Jing said.
“Jing, with your cheerful and passionate personality and keen color sense, you’re perfect for this job. Most importantly, it offers freedom,” Bian Xiaoqi smiled.
“My best friend knows me best,” Shen Jing hugged Bian Xiaoqi, smiling.
Qin Ke and Bian Xiaoqi sipped these meaningful cocktails, watching Shen Jing, who seemed to radiate light.
“Since there are no customers yet, I’ll sing a song for you two,” Shen Jing said as she rose and took her guitar to the stage, playing and singing.
“Remembering your endless tenderness, and the impending sorrow of parting, I gently hold you. You cling to my sleeve, wanting me to stay. I tightly grasp your small hand, not daring to meet your tearful eyes. You ask how long I’ll be gone; I say when the green mountains return in spring, I’ll come to be with you. Ah! In beautiful Xizhou, I want to walk with you again. Walking the deserted streets, beneath the moonlight of the western tower...”
This song was for Bian Xiaoqi and Qin Ke, but also for Shen Jing herself. Her heartfelt performance unexpectedly struck a chord with Bian Xiaoqi, who leaned on Qin Ke, eyes misty with tears. Qin Ke was likewise moved, quietly listening to her soulful expression.
“Jing, beautiful voice, beautiful lyrics, beautiful melody—you’ve made me cry,” Bian Xiaoqi embraced Shen Jing.
Knowing Bian Xiaoqi was a good singer, Shen Jing asked her to sing as well.
Bian Xiaoqi generously joined Qin Ke on stage for a duet. As the music began, Shen Jing recognized their song as “Ephemeral Meeting”:
“No matter how it ends, at least we met once. No need to worry about constraints, nor promises unspoken. Just having had each other is enough for you and me. Life holds many memories; may mine be among yours...”
Bian Xiaoqi, tall with flowing hair, sang with a melodious, lingering voice. Qin Ke, spirited, sang with vibrant, resonant tones. Hand in hand, gazing at each other with deep affection, they moved Shen Jing as well. “Ephemeral Meeting” perfectly expressed their feelings then: cherishing the present and looking to the future.
Night fell, and the bar grew lively. Shen Jing busied herself with customers as Bian Xiaoqi and Qin Ke said their goodbyes.
Stepping out of “Blue Bridge,” they saw the brightly lit, bustling streets. Bian Xiaoqi told Qin Ke this area was called Jiuyan Bridge—heaven for Xizhou’s literati and the heart of its nightlife. As darkness came, it transformed into a city that never sleeps.
Side by side, amidst the flowing crowd, they walked closely together.